Wyeside Arts Centre seeks new trustees to join its Council of Management

Wyeside is an independent arts charity based in an historic listed building in the heart of rural Mid Wales in Builth Wells with a turnover of over £300,000. The building has been home to one of Wales longest running cinemas for over ninety years and the arts centre has just finished celebrating its thirtieth birthday.

Wyeside CEO and Artistic Director, Guy Roderick said, "We're all really proud of Wyeside. It has a fantastic history of enabling access to the arts for the wide geographical area of communities that it serves. Some of the famous stars that have appeared on the Wyeside stage over the years include the top names in all fields of arts and entertainment from jazz and comedy legends Ronnie Scott, and Eddie Izzard, to literary giants like Carol Anne Duffy and Germaine Greer.

Famous visiting companies have included the Royal National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Welsh National Opera. More local community arts activity has seen the arts centre hosting annual performances by Builth Wells Community Arts, Mid Powys Youth Theatre and the Young Farmer's Clubs. It is an enormously valuable and important cultural asset in Mid Powys."

Over the past few years Wyeside has faced potential closure a number of times but in the face of real adversity the staff and volunteers have repeatedly rallied round to keep this well loved venue open to the public and have continued to deliver a great programme of events that is renowned for its breadth and quality.

Last year they were hugely strengthened in their efforts by the extraordinary public petition to the Heritage Minister that gathered over eight thousand signatures - all determined to 'Save Wyeside' - the second largest petition ever received by the Welsh Assembly Government. Any prospective Trustees will be very interested to note that Wyeside is one of only three arts venues in Wales to have secured the coveted Investors in People status, has a dedicated and committed active Friends group and its record of promoting opportunities for volunteering has been recognised by the Prime Minister's Office.

Equally worthy of note is the support that Wyeside gets from its key main funders, the Arts Council of Wales and Powys County Council, alongside equally vital support from Builth Wells Town Council and a wide range of fundraising activities.

Over the course of a typical year Wyeside presents more than 1000 events ranging from classical music, theatre, film, community plays and youth theatre to comedy nights, contemporary music and arts workshops.

Chair of Wyeside Council of Management, Julian Gibson Watt said, "Wyeside has been well served over a long period by a Board who have steered the company through some very difficult times. It is an important duty of every Board of Trustees, though, to build Board Succession Planning into their long-term strategy. Although we know that there are significant challenges ahead we recognise that adding new and highly motivated Trustees to our Board will bring great benefit to Wyeside and in turn to our huge audiences - generally numbering around 40,000 people attending events per year. We want to attract new Trustees who will be prepared to share their expertise and knowledge with Wyeside's small, but highly regarded staff team and to work alongside them to meet and overcome those challenges that lie ahead.

"We have some particular areas of expertise that we feel would be a priority for us to attract including: strategic finance, fund-raising, PR & communications, marketing & audience development, current arts sector experience, leadership and governance, human resources, health and safety and digital media artforms. That said, however, the most important thing that any new trustee would bring to the Board would be their willingness to fully engage with the arts centre and its activities and a preparedness to offer vital volunteer management support to the team. We are well aware from the kind of support we received through the petition that Wyeside is widely acknowledged as being a vibrant, professional and innovative arts centre and we are keen to attract new trustees who will strive to match the aspirations and ambitions of our audiences and our team."

Anyone with an interest should, in the first instance request an information pack by contacting Julian Gibson Watt, c/o Wyeside Arts Centre, Castle Street. Builth Wells. Powys. LD2 3BN or by email to chairman@wyeside.co.uk

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Curtain up at the Grand Pavilion

Audiences and performers at Porthcawl's Grand Pavilion have been enjoying the benefits of new stage curtains and a new state-of-the-art loudspeaker system thanks to two generous contributions made by Porthcawl Town Council in partnership with the Grand Pavilion.

Welsh manufacturing has also benefited from the partnership, as the chosen loudspeaker system was designed and manufactured in Mid Wales.

Staff at the Grand Pavilion, which is part of Bridgend County Borough Council's Arts and Culture service, were well aware that the velour fabric of the old house curtains was literally turning to dust.

Wayne Francis, Technical Manager, said: “The curtains were at least 30 years old and had served us incredibly well, but the constant wear and tear and aging of the fabric meant that it was no longer feasible to maintain them.

“Specialist theatrical company, ASG Stage Ltd, was commissioned to install new curtain track, controller, motorised drive and – of course – a lovely pair of red velour curtains.

“The new curtains glide open at the touch of a button and make an important difference to every performance.”

Similarly, the last significant upgrade to the in-house PA system was 20 years ago. In recent years, it had become obvious that the system was no longer fit for purpose.

Assistant Manager Mark Phillips said: “In the last few years, we had made best use of the existing equipment available to us within the Grand Pavilion and Arts Service. However, it was clear that we needed to take a very significant step forward if we were to keep up with what other similar venues were already offering their audiences and performers.”

“Our mission was clear – find an affordable system of the highest quality that would cater for our vast range of events, from drama and ballet to comedy and live music, and everything in between!

“One of the systems we auditioned stood head and shoulders above the rest and was unanimously chosen. Financially, it also made a lot of sense. To learn that it was designed and built in Wales was a welcome bonus.

“The system has already been used with a wide variety of events and we are extremely satisfied with how it is performing.”

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Theatr Clwyd Cymru gets ready for the Christmas Season

The same team who made Jack and the Beanstalk and Cinderella - The Panto With Soul sell-out Christmas shows in Mold for the past two years, is back again.

Robin Hood and the Babes In The Wood is a magical adventure story which follows Robin Hood's attempts to outwit the evil Sheriff of Nottingham, free the unfortunate Babes and their outrageous Nanny, Nellie Nightnurse, and marry the beautiful Maid Marion. The result is a fast and furious musical version of this traditional tale to delight all the family.

The talented cast of ten actor/musicians serve up over twenty rock and soul classic songs including The Hippy Hippy Shake, I Shot the Sheriff, Girls Just Want To Have Fun, I Can't Help Myself, Signed, Sealed and Delivered and many more.

Robin Hood and the Babes In The Wood combines exciting live music with all the fun of traditional panto to create the perfect Christmas show.
Great Festive entertainment does not come any better!

As in previous years the Clwyd Christmas panto is already proving to be very popular. Tickets are selling fast, with some performances already sold out. As ever, early booking is recommended.

You can see Robin Hood at the Anthony Hopkins Theatre from Friday 20th November 2009 - Saturday 23rd January 2010.

Another Christmas classic, Charles Dickens's 'A Christmas Carol' is also coming to Theatr Clwyd. Presented The Carpe Momento company, the ageless tale has been adapted and performed by Robert Perkins.

'A Christmas Carol' is presented as a wonderfully theatrical experience as Robert uses voice and gesture to people the stage and recreate the familiar story of Ebenezer Scrooge - an embittered, lonely old miser who finds a second chance to become a generous, caring human being. We meet Scrooge's well-meaning relatives and the poor but happy Cratchit family. And this one-man show is accompanied by a series of ghostly visitations!

You can see 'A Christmas Carol' from Wednesday 9th - Thursday 31st December 2009 7.15pm, Matinees 2.15pm.

Clwyd Theatr Cymru is supported by Arts Council of Wales.

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Award-Winning Children's Book Comes To Theatr Brycheiniog Stage

David Almond's book Skellig, published in 1998, became an instant classic, snatching the Whitbread Children's Book Award from Harry Potter and winning the prestigious Carnegie Medal. Now it is being brought to the stage for a special UK tour playing at Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, from 23-28 November prior to a London season.

Skellig tells the story of ten-year-old Michael, who had been looking forward to moving into a new house. But now his baby sister is ill and his parents are frantic. Then Michael wanders into the crumbling garage and sees something lying beneath the spider webs and flies - is it a man or an animal? Michael confides in his new friend Mina and together they carry the creature Skellig into the light, changing their world forever.

David Almond's eerie and magical stage version of his own book stars Neal Foster and is directed by Welsh director Phil Clark, who said 'Skellig is one of the greatest books written for young people. Transposing it to the stage has been a great privilege and an exciting artistic challenge.'

Phil continues: 'Because of the epic nature of the narrative, the story demands a total theatre approach. I have chosen to work with a cast of actor/musicians and the composer Jak Poore from Llandrindod Wells. Together we have created a piece of theatre that reaches out to touch and celebrate young people's imagination.'

When it was originally seen in Birmingham and London last year, Skellig played to packed houses and great acclaim. The Stage said 'The BSC's production of this wondrous and multi-layered story is riveting. Skellig is powerfully played by Neal Foster and his presence is awesome.'

In addition to the stage version, Skellig was recently filmed with Tim Roth & John Simm and watched by one million viewers on Sky TV.

With performances on Monday 23, Thursday 26 and Friday 27 November, Birmingham Stage Company's Skellig is a very special theatrical family treat not to be missed and is suitable for all ages 6+. Tickets cost £12.50 (£11.00 concs) and are available online at www.theatrbrycheiniog.co.uk or from the box office on 01874 611622.

Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, is one of Wales' foremost arts centres with a wide-ranging programme of music, theatre, dance and comedy. Its funding partners include the Arts Council of Wales, Powys County Council and Brecon Town Council.

Photograph: A still from Skelig (c) Birmingham Stage Company

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National Youth Arts Wales on the hunt for budding young actors for 2010

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is looking for young people from across Wales to join the organisation in 2010.

In the New Year, teams from NYTW will be travelling the length and breadth of Wales, scouting for some of Wales' most talented young actors, designers, stage managers and technicians.

Application forms are available NOW and the deadline for completed applications is Tuesday 1 December 2009.

A series of workshop-auditions for the Youth Theatre (aimed at young people aged 16 - 21 years) are being arranged in locations throughout Wales during January - April 2010.

Membership of NYTW includes an intensive training and rehearsal period during the summer, plus the prospect of large-scale public performances in some of Wales' most well-known venues. In 2009, the Youth Theatre toured to Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Clwyd Theatr Cymru in Mold and Sherman Cymru, Cardiff.

So .... get in touch and get involved!

Further information and application forms are available from www.nyaw.co.uk or from:
NYAW, 245 Western Avenue, Cardiff, CF5 2YX (02920 265 006)

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Aberystwyth Arts Centre presents Writers in Residence project, 'Travelling Light'

Emerging playwrights are gearing up to present their new short plays as part of Aberystwyth Arts Centre's 'Travelling Light II' project.

For the past 9 months a selected group of new writers have been meeting at Aberystwyth Arts Centre as part of a Writers in Residence Project. Working under the guidance of playwright and Creative Wales Award winner, Kaite O'Reilly (pictured), they have developed a series of short plays.

The plays will be presented as rehearsed readings with a cast of professional performers directed by Gilly Adams. Two plays will be shown on each night. A post show discussion about the plays and the process will take place on both evenings.

MONDAY 16th November:
Use By Christina Katic
Four women in a caravan climbing the walls. Literally. They've met for a wedding - or is it a funeral...? How will they find out which...?

Feathering the Dark by Chris Kinsey
Gerda survived the War, but in a night of terror and revelation, she must now survive the present.

THURSDAY 19th November:
The Wild, Wild Girls of Musical Terrace by Liz Jones
Two estranged sisters meet on a bench where their childhood home once stood. As they recall the night which drove them apart, two different versions unfold...But which one is true? A dark, tragicomic tale of abandonment, betrayal, and irrepressible
hope.

Happy Birthday Ruth by Lisa Parry
Ruth is Ian's wife, David's grandmother and Mary's long-term secret lover. For years she has juggled all three roles, keeping her own life in a delicate equilibrium. But her deceit has consequences, not just for herself.

Tickets for this performance are £5 (£3) one night / £8 (£5) for two and can be booked by contacting the Arts Centre ticket office on 01970 62 32 32 or online at www.aber.ac.uk/artscentre

Travelling Light II will run at Aberystwyth Arts Centre on Monday 16th and Thursday 19th November at 7.45pm. Aberystwyth Arts Centre is supported by Arts Council of Wales.

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First ever National Theatre Wales production to open at Blackwood Miners' Institute

The new and highly anticipated National Theatre Wales announced their first year programme of work today with a global webcast.

Blackwood Miners' Institute is to present the opening nights of the company's first ever production in March 2010, A Good Night Out in the Valleys. The company will also spend February based in the building rehearsing the play.

"We are thrilled to play such a prominent role in the National Theatre's first year of work and we look forward to Blackwood Miners becoming their home for a month this Spring," Ceri Puckett, Marketing Manager, Blackwood Miners' Institute.

Director John E McGrath and Writer Alan Harris have spent a month in the Miners' and Workmen's Institutes of South Wales asking people for their Valleys stories in a series of workshops and conversations. Local people will help choose the story that Alan will use as the basis for his new play. After listening to hundreds, we transform the best into a beautiful, outrageous night of theatre.

Like the National Theatre of Scotland, NTW does not have its own performing house so the company will take productions to existing theatres as well as work at site specific locations.

There will be 12 productions during the launch year, which runs from March 2010 to Spring 2011. And they will be staged throughout Wales. Visit the National Theatre of Wales website to view the entire first year's programme.

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National Theatre Wales is launched to the world

At 12.30pm today (November 5 2009) John McGrath Artistic Director of National Theatre Wales announced the company's first year of work at a press briefing in Cardiff that was simultaneously broadcast to the world via the internet.

Key staff, guests and artists were in attendance at the live event at the company's shop/office at Castle Arcade, Cardiff, and many thousands logged on to nationaltheatrewales.org to watch the global digital broadcast of the event. It is believed to be the first time a theatre has launched in this way.

Launch gatherings were held simultaneously across Wales in locations where National Theatre Wales will produce work between March 2010 and April 2011.

The first 'launch' year of work will theatrically map Wales. One show per month, each month (plus an additional finale) will take place in locations across the country, bringing the very best of Welsh writing, performing and directing together with world class artists and world class ideas from across the globe.

National Theatre Wales will create bold, invigorating theatre in the English language, rooted in Wales, with an international reach. It will produce theatre indoors and outdoors across spaces and landscapes in Wales. It will explore theatre as a space for debate and discussion, and develop programmes to respond to current events happening across the road or around the world.

National Theatre Wales actively encourages dialogue with the people of Wales and beyond, and therefore it welcomes response to its work at nationaltheatrewales.org

National Theatre Wales is supported by Arts Council of Wales via a Welsh Assembly Government investment.

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Identifying the Potential

Identifying the Potential, - a major research project into drama audiences in Wales is published today. Arts Council of Wales commissioned Audiences Wales, the arts marketing and audience development agency for Wales, to prepare the research on the development of theatre audiences in Wales.

Identifying the Potential is the most comprehensive piece of research on the theatre sector undertaken in Wales with detailed analysis of ticket sales from theatres across Wales, interviews with 22 theatres and 8 production companies, and focus groups and interviews with over 120 members of the public.

With nearly a million tickets for drama events sold in Wales across a three year period, 2005-2008, the report shows a healthy and successful sector with even greater potential to reach audiences.

Nick Capaldi, Chief Executive of Arts Council of Wales, said:
"Theatre in Wales is one of the country's cultural glories, and it's clear that many people are already experiencing a range of drama activity. However, there are still people who are missing out, and we're very keen that the widest audience possible has the opportunity to enjoy what's on offer. This important piece of research sets out the challenge, and we look forward to working with our partners to grow the audiences for the future."

Nick Beasley, Chief Executive of Audiences Wales, said:
"There are some significant issues highlighted by this study and some positive things to say about drama in Wales. Around 20-25% of the population in Wales is going to plays.

"However, nearly two-thirds of audiences attend plays very infrequently. Within a context where available programming is seen as limited and theatres and audiences are both seen as 'risk averse', the sector faces some important challenges.

"If Arts Council of Wales and the sector can develop co-operative strategies to increase the frequency of current attenders and reach new audiences, drama in Wales will flourish and support the development of theatres and arts centres throughout the country."

The research has been presented in a two part report. The first part presents a summary of the research findings, the conclusions and recommendations, and a framework, with associated resources, to support theatres and companies to deliver the potential identified in the report. The second part of the report includes the detailed research findings, audience profiles and analysis that have informed the conclusions and recommendations.

The impetus for the project came from Arts Council of Wales drama strategy which expressed the concern that audiences need to be developed for drama, particularly in light of the new English language National Theatre Wales. There had also been in-depth discussion about current and future audience levels at Creu Cymru Drama Consortium Meetings over the past three years.

The project benefited from a steering group including Creu Cymru, the Wales Association for the Performing Arts, and Arts Council of Wales to support the project and maximise the benefits to all theatres, arts centres and production companies in Wales.

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3D Theatre Company presents ambitious series of plays by new Welsh writers

Six original short plays, six sets of cast and six weeks to put on a show!

Cardiff's 3D Theatre Company returns to the newly renovated Chapter Arts Centre in Canton with its latest production, 'Angel'.

Following the great success of its production, 'Zufall', last year, the company decided to follow the same ambitious format with a bilingual production over four nights between November 3 and November 6 2009. The Welsh language plays will be presented over the first two nights with the English language plays to follow over the last two nights.

The production is supported by Arts Council of Wales and this time around, 3D Theatre Company looks at the concept surrounding 'Angels', exploring intriguing themes such as guardian angels, life and death, heaven and hell and fallen angels.

The company has again been working with the next generation of young talented Welsh writers to produce short plays that reflect these themes. And with renowned Welsh actors taking part in 'Angel' including Yoland Williams and Ieuan Rhys there's something for everyone.

The darkly comic 'Ieuan Bythwyrdd' (Ieuan Evergreen), by author, Joanna Davies, was awarded the best Welsh language play award by the Drama Association of Wales earlier this year. The play tells the tale of a dangerous Guardian Angel whose obsession towards her handsome hero pushes her over the edge. Whilst 'Sawl yn Syrthio', (Someone Falling), which featured at the 2009 National Eisteddfod at Bala and is written by the actor, Glenn Jones, explores the notion of four people falling from grace in very different ways.

Things take a surreal turn in Chantal Lee -Gan's play, 'My Friend Death', when a visit from the Grim Reaper leads to an unlikely friendship. Continuing with the paranormal theme, 'Black Ice', by the writer of 'Richard Parker', Owen Thomas, is an exciting new play about chance encounters and unexpected salvation.

'Sponge for the Ducks' by Alastair Sill, explores one man's relationship with his angel; an angel who has a preference for mature gentlemen, earl grey tea and Battenberg cake!

'Heb Fwg Heb Dân' (No smoke without fire) written by television producer, Dafydd Llewelyn, explores people's perspectives as they face their end, in a dark otherworldly tale of regret and lost loves.

Hannah Jones, co-producer, explains why 'Angel' is the company's most ambitious production to date:

"We've been lucky enough to collaborate with the great artist and designer, Kim Fielding of tactileBOSCH for this production. He's really encouraged us to push the boat out with our set and stage design. We're also combining specially filmed action with the live performances and there'll be some other surprises in store for the audience on the night!"

3D Theatre Company was established in the summer of 2003 at Aberystwyth University by three young women who shared the same interest and enthusiasm for one thing - the theatre.

Good friends and now business partners, Nia Wyn Jones from Aberdaron, Hannah Wynn Jones from Colwyn Bay and Catrin Wyn Jones from Llanelli, all work in full time jobs but also run the theatre company as a highly successful part time venture.

Catrin, 27, co-producer explained the ethos of the company:

"When we graduated from the University of Wales Aberystwyth in 2003, many of our friends and fellow students started rock groups, and were asked to hold gigs on a frequent basis. We thought -why couldn't we be part of something creative? Why do rock groups of all standards have a platform and an audience in Wales, but not theatre groups? We believe that drama is very similar to a gig. A night out to enjoy - that's what people want and that's what we aim to give them!"

Thanks to support from organisations such as Entrepreneur Action, Arts Council of Wales and Cardiff's Chapter Arts Centre, the company is going from strength to strength with the company celebrating its seventh birthday and with 'Angel', its ninth production!

So if you want a night to remember, go along to the spanking new Chapter Arts Centre between November 3-6, and enjoy the 'Angel' plays. It would be a SIN to miss them!

read more... “3D Theatre Company presents ambitious series of plays by new Welsh writers”

Come to the Pinter Party

The countdown has begun for a unique festival dedicated to the work of one of Britain's leading playwrights.

A Feast of Pinter takes to the stage in Fishguard this weekend.

The festival features a selection of Harold Pinter's work from his earliest plays to his later more political offerings.

It will also include films, poetry readings, a workshop and masterclass - as well as a discussion on Pinter's work with his friend the director Matthew Harry Burton and Ian Smith, author of Pinter in the Theatre.

The celebratory festival has been organised by Pembrokeshire County Council's Arts Officer Christine Willison together with the Pembrokeshire Drama Association and Bee Line Theatre.

Local playgoers, as well as Pinter fans from across the country, are being attracted to the festival.

"After Pinter died last year a local drama fan suggested we celebrate his work and the idea was taken up with enthusiasm by several Pembrokeshire-based theatre groups," said Christine Willison.

"Many people believe he was the most notable playwright of the 20th Century.

"If we get an enthusiastic response from audiences we plan to stage another drama festival next year - probably featuring another playwright."

Harold Pinter, who died aged 78 last Christmas, was one of Britain's leading playwrights and was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2005.

His work ranges from his early plays such as The Birthday Party, The Caretaker and The Homecoming through No Man's Land and Betrayal to later more political work such as One for the Road and Ashes to Ashes.

He also wrote a number of film screenplays including The Servant and The Go-Between as well as continuing to act and direct.

A Feast of Pinter is being staged at Theatr Gwaun between October 23rd and 25th. The festival also includes a free fringe poetry reading at Fishguard Library on Thursday October 22nd at 6.30pm.

A few tickets are still available. For availability and prices contact the Theatr Gwaun Box Office in West Street, Fishguard. Phone: 01348 873421.

For more information contact Christine Willison on 01437 776079 or email Christine.willison@pembrokeshire.gov.uk

Photograph: Actors performing in the festival gear up for the weekend

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Lyric ineligible for Arts Council Welsh nights

The Lyric Theatre was re-opened it in October 2004 by Carmarthenshire County Council.

Since then there have been 65 Welsh language events attracting an audience totalling 30,000 with an average attendance of 461.

Of the 65 events nine were full week Welsh Language amateur and local productions and or events which had a total of 3003 an average 333 participants and actors on stage or acting a stage crew and or members of the orchestra.

In respect of Welsh language touring theatre in Carmarthenshire, Council run theatres are excluded from the Arts Council of Wales' Night Out Scheme as they are owned and managed by Local Authorities.

This means that a number of Welsh Language productions in the Carmarthen area will be performed at the Haliwell Theatre or community venues such as Pontyberem Welfare Hall who qualify under the scheme .

The Authority work closely with these companies and local venues to avoid a clash of events. The Council has no way of influencing this.

Carmarthenshire Theatres operates a One Audience One Programme policy where events will alternate between venues in Llanelli and Carmarthen and occasionally Ammanford. To encourage audiences to attend the Council operates a free shuttle buses for our customers to travel from one town to the other. Welsh Language events are included in the Free Shuttle Bus programme.

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Upstairs Downstairs to be revived by BBC Wales

The legendary TV series Upstairs Downstairs is to be brought back to life by BBC Wales.

Award-winning Heidi Thomas (Cranford, Madame Bovary, Ballet Shoes) is writing two new feature length scripts for transmission on BBC One in 2010.

Set in 1936 in the same iconic house 165 Eaton Place in London's Belgravia, the sumptuous drama is set to delight fans old and new.

Jean Marsh will reprise her role of Rose, the parlourmaid, returning to the house as housekeeper to its new residents, the wealthy and well-connected Holland family.

Heidi Thomas will create a new role for Dame Eileen Atkins.

We rejoin the world of Upstairs Downstairs in the years leading up to the Second World War. Times are changing and servants are no longer cheap and obedient; Rose soon finds she has her work cut out.

Meanwhile, in the wider world, Edward VIII has ascended the throne, fascism is on the rise, and Europe is inching towards catastrophe.

Originally co-created by Jean Marsh, Dame Eileen Atkins and Sagitta Productions, Upstairs Downstairs became one of the most-loved and enduring TV shows of all time.

A huge hit with British and international audiences, it won countless awards, including seven Emmys, two BAFTAs and a Golden Globe.

It has been shown in more than 70 countries worldwide, to an audience of over one billion.

Heidi Thomas says: "I am both thrilled and humbled to have this opportunity.

"The original Upstairs Downstairs marked the start of my love affair with televison, and I am determined that the new version will in every way be a worthy successor to the original."

Piers Wenger, Head of Drama, BBC Wales, adds: "We are delighted to have secured the rights with the full blessing and support of the original co-creators.

"This is not a remake but a completely new version, set in a different era with a whole new cast of characters."

Dame Eileen Atkins says: "I am delighted to have the chance to star in the new version for the BBC.

"Heidi Thomas is an extraordinarily talented writer and it is always a complete joy to work with her."

Jean Marsh said: "I am hugely looking forward to spending time with Rose. I have missed her enormously."

John Witney, Sagitta Productions, said: "I am delighted the BBC is reviving Upstairs Downstairs and setting it during a time of social change – just as it was when the Bellamys lived at 165."

Upstairs Downstairs will be relaunched as two x 90-minutes in 2010, made in-house by BBC Wales Drama.

Filming begins next Spring. Full casting will be announced next year.

It was commissioned by Ben Stephenson, Controller of BBC Drama Commissioning, and Jay Hunt, Controller, BBC One.

The executive producers are Piers Wenger and Heidi Thomas.

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Well-loved UK entertainer performs in one of Wales’ most stunning locations

Wales’ audiences will get an opportunity to spend an intimate evening with one of Britain’s most-loved and most dapper entertainers when Nicholas Parsons performs at the historic St Donats Arts Centre on Saturday October 24th at 7.30pm.

Nicholas is probably most well known as the Chairman of BBC Radio 4's Just A Minute. After an incredible 42 years during which he has never missed a show many fans note that he still doesn't seem to have a complete grasp of the rules! In fact, a lot has been said about Nicholas Parsons, mainly by the contestants - and much of it rude!

In this very entertaining and vibrant show called 'Just A Laugh A Minute', Nicholas takes his audience on a humorous journey through the often hysterically funny memorabilia of his eventful life which began as the son of a GP whose patients included Margaret Thatcher’s parents.

After making his screen debut in 1947 he became one of Britain’s most famous actors, straight men, cabaret artists, quiz-show hosts and West End stars.

As a fabulous mimic and impressionist he recalls incidents with superb observation, and re-creates them with vivid impersonations of the famous personalities including Benny Hill, Arthur Haynes, Ed Sullivan, Rik Mayall and Adrian Edmondson.

One of the tales he tells comes from his days as the host of ITV's Sale of the Century remembered by the public with tremendous affection not least for the magnificently crappy prizes - the Goblin Teasmade, the rubber dinghy, the twin-tub washing-machine and the star prize of an Eastern European car,

"There were strict limits on the value of prizes. British cars were too expensive. Once, the doors fell off the star prize (a Lada) when I went to open them...Certainly, telly is not what it used to be.”

His intimate concert will take place in the 14th century Tythe Barn Theatre at St Donats Arts Centre in the Vale of Glamorgan in the grounds of St Donats castle overlooking the sea with beautiful renaissance gardens.

Tickets are available from 01446 799100 or online at www.stdonats.com

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Aerial Acrobatic show sutable for all the family

Exciting new production, Wardrobe Diaries, comes to Blackwood Miners' Institute on Wednesday 21st October at 7.30pm.

"The group expertly swing from six Chinese poles with the ease of spiders dangling from a web." South Wales Argus.

Directed by James Roberts, this must see show is a rich mix of aerial and acrobatic skills, dance, honest imagination and quirky humour; the CITRUS crew move up, down and around a wall of 20ft climbing poles and two tonnes of discarded clothing.

"Wardrobe Diaries" is based on those Sunday afternoon clothing clear-out moments that remind you of not going to bed without your favourite Spiderman pyjamas, wearing a fur coat at a festival, things that belonged to Grand-parents, the costumed Hen/Stag-night you had last summer and all of that stuff you bought, but never wore.

Featuring the music of Ted Barnes (composer to Beth Orton), the lively, soulful beats of Mr Scruff and a cast of top-end circus and dance artists. Truly, a Rumble in the Jumble.

Tickets cost only £5 and are available from the Box Office on 01495 227206 or book online on the Blackwood Miners' Institute website.

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Ease your way into October with entertainment at the Norwegian Church

You’ll be assured of a warm waterfront welcome in October at this historic venue featuring comedy, markets, workshops and live music.

On Thursday October 8th Tin Shed Theatre kicks off the month in style by presenting a comedy evening. The show is a selection of short comedy scenarios involving various quirky and outrageous characters that are guaranteed to have you laughing out loud. Having previously performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2008 with great reviews, this show is certain to be an entertaining evening.

Bill Wheeler lines up another taster for those wishing to express a hidden flair through the watercolour medium, his ‘Watercolour Workshop’ on Sunday October 11th takes place in the ‘Norwegian Room’…then couldn’t quite make up your mind whether that special gift was ‘you’?

‘Joire de Vivre’ boutique “markets visit on the Sunday October 18th so treat yourself or indulge in some early Christmas shopping….their visits to the Church have become a particular draw for those eager to snap up unique and exclusive gifts.

Tuesday October 22nd sees the much awaited return of ‘Celtish’ to the Norwegian Church Stage. This dynamic band of individuals will not fail to deliver, wherever your tastes may lie. Such are their talents, that audiences are enthralled with the rich blend of emotive songs, and enigmatic tunes. Here is a group of passionate artists who clearly cherish their music, use their instruments to their fullest potential, and generously ‘give’ of themselves and their talents to their audience.

Councillor Nigel Howells, Executive Member for Sport, Leisure and Culture said: “It’s encouraging to see such fantastic entertainment in place at the Norwegian Church this October which can make the transition into autumn that much more enjoyable! The range of entertainment provided improves year on year and the introduction of comedy to the line up is an excellent choice, one which I am looking forward to.”

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Weston Studio’s 5th Birthday treats for its audience

It’s relaxed but edgy, informal and challenging. In the five years that Wales Millennium Centre has been building its reputation as an iconic arts venue, its intimate arts space, the Weston Studio has been growing alongside it.

Audiences have enjoyed comedy, theatre and dance from the best of Welsh, British and international talent in the Weston Studio – and there’s much more of that to come in 2009 as the Studio celebrates its fifth birthday.

Weston Studio Season Highlights include:

1 Wardrobe Diaries (October 7)
Acrobatics, strength and dance theatre are blended with stunning consequence as an international cast perform among two tonnes of clothing and six 20 foot long Chinese poles in this exciting show. Sorting out your old clothes often triggers memories. Wardrobe Diaries brings these to life through a thrilling combination of aerial feats, dance and humour in a show that is conceived, produced and directed by former No Fit State ImMortal performer James Roberts, with support from No Fit State Circus.

2 Banxy (November 1)
It’s not the Bristol urban artist, but the exciting Swindon breakdancer, Banxy, who is returning to the Centre to present his new solo work, Ikky Wakk. Banxy’s performance is followed by Kno Love Productions and their gritty urban slice of reality, Cool Rules. These pieces are complemented by a final performance from Banxy and Kno Love Productions’ Curtis James, who team up to produce a fast and furious two-hander, Anti-Cool.

3 Moby Dick (November 2-4)
Spymonkey’s brand of comedy is a modern mix of the likes of Monty Python, Tommy Cooper and Morecombe and Wise. The company is willing to lampoon just about anything, and Herman Melville’s classic American tale Moby Dick is no exception. Watch as four talented performers use a boat, a sea and a whale to bring this story to life – and prepare for raucous humour, sharp characters and bellyaches of laughter.

4 Family Day (November 8)
Our Family Day encourages children to develop a bond with theatre and the arts from an early age. This Welsh-language Family Day is aimed at both learners and fluent speakers of the language and offers families an opportunity to enjoy theatre together. The focal point of the day includes a performance of Twm Sion Cati at 3pm, which tells the swashbuckling tale of the 16th century Welsh highwayman who robbed the rich to give to the poor.

5 Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea (December 19)
The 1927 theatre company’s multiple award-winning theatrical cabaret combines live music, performance and storytelling with film and animation. Their production is a dark mix of cabaret and has been likened to the works of David Lynch, Shockheaded Peter and Edward Gorey. Using the convention of silent cinema, a series of comic happenings unfold in which the performers interact with the animation which includes unlucky cats and marauding gingerbread men.

Ticket prices
Ticket prices for Weston Studio shows (with the exception of a few highlighted in the brochure) range from £8 - £12. The price you pay depends on the show and how early you book.

The first 30 tickets sold cost £8 each. The next 30 tickets sold cost £10 each. All remaining tickets (including those bought on the day of the performance) cost £12 each. If at any time you book for three different shows together you will pay the lowest rate of £8 per ticket.

Make the most of your visit
With all our seats unreserved you don’t have to book together to sit together, just turn up with time to spare to get your seats. Upstairs to Bar One is the official Studio Bar, where you can get 10 per cent off your drinks for the whole evening (just show your ticket).

Visit www.wmc.org.uk or call the box office on 08700 40 2000 for tickets and more information.

Photograph: Banxy

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Cappucino Girls Flash Mob Swansea

It amazes me sometimes how we get to hear about things at Welsh Icons Towers.

On Monday Shaheen (the boy from Swansea who sang at the Michael Jackson memorial service) joined with 160 other dancers to do a flash mob dance in Swansea. The song is the Cappuccino girls sung by another Swansea singing star Bonnie Tyler.

Within hours of this video being placed on YouTube we had been sent multiple copies of the link by our numerous readers in the states. It would seem that Mal Pope's song from the Cappuccino Girls has gone virally global.

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Earthfall presents the 20th Anniversary Celebratory tour

GIG - Out of harmony comes discord In celebration of their 20th Anniversary, the multi award-winning dance and physical theatre company, Earthfall, present their winter season with a tour of their brand-new performance, GIG, scheduled to perform at six venues nationwide from 22 October (see full tour schedule below).

Earthfall are a 21st Century phenomenon, inspired by gritty reality and glitzy technology, creating minute epics with extreme physicality.'THE GUARDIAN

'Mesmerising ... it made the theatre catch fire - epic' MAIL ON SUNDAY

Marking their 26th production since the company's formation in 1989, Earthfall takes pride in successfully forging radical choreography with live music and strong visual imagery. Founding Artistic Directors, Jim Ennis & Jessica Cohen have rapidly established the company as an outstanding exponent of pioneering dance theatre. Earthfall's theme-based work is primarily concerned with seeking a personal honesty, passion, and economy in physical performance, to produce multifaceted, quality work which has been performed throughout the world. In testament of their success so far, Earthfall has received several awards for its live performance and film work, including the BAFTA Cymru Award for Best Short Film and has twice won the Theatre in Wales Award for Best Dance/Physical Theatre Production.

'As with all Earthfall shows, this is no ordinary performance ...

a major piece of dance theatre which manages to engage, excite and exhilarate almost to the point of exhaustion' THE WESTERN MAIL

'...seldom shy of mesmerising' THE SCOTSMAN

Looking back over the past two-decades of performance Jim Ennis comments: "Earthfall was established in a year of great political upheaval, predominately in the Eastern bloc, including the defining act of demolishing the Berlin Wall - both a political and physical act that helped shape the performance and choreographic style of the company.

"I'm delighted that we have made it to 20-years and am proud to have become one of Wales' leading artistic exports. To survive this long in the performing arts world, you have to be both dogged and resilient - Earthfall's survival and achievements to date are testament to this and our continued collaboration with dedicated and talented artists.

"The pressure, determination and pursuit of new ideas remains the same now as it was in 1989 and we look forward to continuing our production of award-winning work."

Jessica Cohen adds: "From the moment we decided to start Earthfall, it has been like a roller-coaster ride. I'm incredibly proud of our company surviving 20 years, it's a considerable length of time. Earthfall is truly embedded into my life and the creative process never gets easier; the first day of rehearsal is still a bit like the first day back at school!"

Alongside the tour, Earthfall will be offering educational workshops, available for groups aged 15+, which will provide a unique opportunity to explore the choreographic tasks and stimuli used to devise the piece, enabling participants to delve into their own creative edge and find expression in their work.

'A stunning concept all round' THE STAGE

GIG promises to be no exception to Earthfall's continued repertoire of excellence with a high-octane, satirical rampage through the human condition, featuring dark humour, bold dance, film and award-winning, live music that is both anarchic and melodic in style, composed by Sion Orgon and Frank Naughton.

Four physical performers and two musicians depict the story of a touring alternative/progressive band who are experiencing life from an elevated and somewhat surreal position, far removed from the realities of society, whilst their music and performances continue to encapsulate the world outside. As the band members struggle to make sense of their world, they experience both transient and turbulent relationships, as trashed instruments, bloody noses and drunken reconciliations are witnessed.

Expect to be transported on an emotional journey from the exhilarating and poignant through to the comical and utterly ridiculous.

www.thisisgig.com

TOUR SCHEDULE

Thurs, 22 - Fri, 23 October 7.45pm £12/£10concs Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon 01874 611622

Wed, 28 - Thurs, 29 October 8pm £12 / £10 under 19s £8 Sherman Cymru, Cardiff 029 2064 6900

Wed, 4 - Thurs, 5 November 8pm £10 / £8concs / £4 BSU Students University Theatre - Bath Spa University 01225 463362

Tues, 10 November 7.30pm £12 / 9.50concs Weymouth College 01305 208702

Fri, 13 November 7.30pm £10 / £7.50concs Galeri, Caernarfon 01286 658222

Tues, 17 November 7.30pm £7.50 / £6.50concs Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre 01823 414141

Earthfall : Second week of Rehearsal GIG clip two

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Mick calls for Heritage Minister support for Theatr Hafren

Montgomeryshire AM Mick Bates has called on the Heritage Minister, Alun Ffred Jones, to give support to Theatr Hafren for its plans for refurbishment and expansion.

Speaking in the Chamber yesterday Mick stated:

“In the current economic climate less and less people are travelling abroad, instead preferring to spend time in their local area and cultural events are becoming increasingly popular.

“In Montgomeryshire we are lucky to have a gem called Theatr Hafren, host to a range of community, professional and educational events with a catchment from Oswestry to Wrexham, Aberystwyth and Brecon.

“Although the theatre is withstanding the pressures of the recession, it is in dire need of refurbishment and has exciting plans for expansion.

“I urge the Minister for Heritage to visit Theatr Hafren to discuss its vision and plans for the future of this enterprising venue, which is host to so many wonderful cultural events and I hope to welcome the Minister to the theatre in the near future.”

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